Norse mythology refers to the mythology and religion of the Norse (also called Vikings) and Germanic peoples, which existed before their conversion to Christianity. The myths are vibrant, intriguing and unique, showcasing the beliefs and ideals of the people who believed in them.
Norse mythology is full of interesting and complex figures, such as Odin, Loki, Thor, Freya and Frigg. It can be harsh and sordid, often even fatalistic, representing the worldview of the Norse people and the harsh environment they lived in.
As Neil Gaiman so aptly puts it, “The Norse myths are the myths of a chilly place, with long, long winter nights and endless summer days, myths of a people who did not entirely trust or even like their gods, although they respected and feared them.”
Our series on Norse mythology covers all the main characters, creatures and events, highlighting the importance of the stories and their symbolism and relevance today.
Mjolnir is the famous hammer of the god Thor, god of thunder, farmers, agriculture, as well as of the Earth’s fertility. His one-handed battle hammer is not only synonymous with thunder and ...
Odin, the Allfather of Norse mythology, once impaled his own heart with the mighty Gungnir spear and hung from the World Tree Yggdrasil for nine days and nights. He did all this to gain knowledge ...
Loki is the most infamous god in Norse mythology and arguably one of the most mischievous gods among all ancient religions. While Loki is known as Odin’s blood brother through an oath and an uncle ...
The Valknut is a recognizable yet somewhat enigmatic symbol. This ancient Norse and Germanic sign goes so far back that archeologists and historians don’t even know its original name, as Valknut ...
The huldra, or hulder, may sound rugged and masculine but they are exceptionally fair female mystical beings in Norse mythology. In fact, through their varying myths and legends, the Huldra can be ...
The famous “End of Days” event in Norse myths, Ragnarok is the culmination of all myths and legends of the Norse people. It’s one of the most unique apocalyptic events in any culture or religion, ...
Thor’s mother in Marvel comics and movies may be Odin’s wife Frigg (or Frigga) but that’s not actually the case in Nordic mythology. In the real Norse myths, the All-Father god Odin had quite a ...
The Greeks have Poseidon, the Chinese have Mazu, comic-book readers have Aquaman, and the Norse have Ægir. Anglicized as Aegir or Aeger, this mythic figure’s name literally means “Sea” in Old ...
In Norse mythology, there's an emphasis on intelligence and wisdom. It's an important aspect of existence, which is why even the most important Nordic god Odin goes chasing it. While he's widely ...
Surtr is a popular figure in Norse mythology, and one who plays a pivotal role during the events of the end of the Norse world, Ragnarok. Although he's sometimes viewed as a Satan-like figure, ...
Fenrir is one of the most famous mythological wolves in the world and has been the inspiration behind the creation of many other fictional wolf and hound characters. It remains one of the most ...
There are many monsters in Nordic folklore and mythology but none inspire as much terror as the World Serpent Jörmungandr. Even the World Tree dragon Níðhöggr, who constantly gnaws at the tree’s ...
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